The race is on, but one seat remains empty—and this is the part most people miss. The 2026-27 SGA Election has officially kicked off, with campaigns heating up for key executive positions. But here's where it gets controversial: the Vice President for Communications role has no candidates, leaving it as a write-in-only position. Could this signal a lack of interest or a shift in student priorities? Let’s dive in.
Campaigns began Monday morning, with the election set for Tuesday, February 24th, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. CT. Three executive positions are hotly contested: President, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Vice President for Belonging and Wellness. The presidency, in particular, is a three-way battle, while the Vice President for Communications spot remains unclaimed—a surprising twist that raises questions about the role’s appeal.
Presidential Candidates:
- Samantha Simmons, current Vice President for Academic Affairs, promises to lower financial barriers, enhance professional preparation, and amplify student voices. Her platform emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility.
- Kyle Porter vows to champion personal, professional, and academic success while preserving campus culture and traditions. His focus is on holistic student support.
- Aaron Rak takes a bold stance, targeting parking prices, accessibility, and the elimination of the $30 course change fee—a move that’s sure to spark debate. Is this a practical solution or an empty promise?
Executive Vice President:
- Freddie Nelson, current Vice President of External Affairs, aims to foster intentional change and student support through his platform, Be First With Freddie.
Vice President for Academic Affairs:
- Madelyn Herwig, Culverhouse College of Business Senator, focuses on accessibility, student success, and accountability. Her team plans to expand internship opportunities and strengthen faculty connections.
- Harlie Hicks prioritizes academic accessibility, clear communication, and collaboration across colleges. Can her vision bridge the gap between students and academic leadership?
Vice President for Belonging and Wellness:
- Emma Honer, SGA Board of Governors member, centers her platform on student well-being, inclusive engagement, and community impact.
- Marykate Foster, Barefield College of Arts and Sciences Senator, aligns her Belong, Support, Thrive pillars with the Alabama Model for Student Health and Wellbeing. Which approach will resonate more with voters?
Vice President for Communications:
With no certified candidates, this position will be decided by write-in votes. The SGA emphasizes that nominees must meet eligibility requirements, adhere to campaign regulations, and formally accept the role if elected. Is this a missed opportunity or a reflection of shifting student interests?
Vice President for External Affairs:
- Lily Leitner, SGA Deputy Chief of Staff, launches Be Legendary with Leitner, focusing on civic engagement and partnerships to amplify student voices beyond campus.
Vice President for Financial Affairs:
- Alex Soliz, Barefield College of Arts & Sciences Senator, aims to rebuild trust in SGA funding by simplifying processes and ensuring transparency. Can he deliver on his promise of clearer guidance?
Vice President for Student Affairs:
- Anna Beth Frazier, Barefield College of Arts & Sciences Senator, highlights student experience, campus connections, opportunity growth, and preparedness as her core pillars.
As the election heats up, one thing is clear: this year’s race is about more than just positions—it’s about the future of student governance. What do you think? Are these candidates addressing the right issues, or is something missing? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
